Conclave Review

This movie was thoroughly cinematic, especially with its use of cinematography. There were constant but effective use of longitudinal close-ups as the camera panned against the very tense scenes such as the voting. The cuts were very long but effectively demonstrated how dire a conclave is and how important is it that they make a well educated kind hearted decision on who to the next pope. I noticed the movie subtly demonstrated the seven deadly sins which is perfect as it is about a religious event. Pride being evident in the cardinals desire to be the Pope especially in Tedesco as he believed wholeheartedly his views were the most superior (it was also shown in Aldo's representation). Lust in the black cardinal's side story. Greed was represented within Lawrence as he was willing to ruin a fellow cardinal's reputation purely to gain more votes. Envy, also shown in Lawrence. This movie is a perfect combination of thriller, plot and an educational representation of life in a traditional Catholic church amongst imperfect sinful beings as it's leaders. This concept goes perfectly along with Blumler and Katz uses and gratifications theory - Diversion, Personal identity and Surveillance. Additionally, the plot twist and abrupt ending at the end of the movie finding out the new chosen pope was, in fact, intersex. That not only drastically grabs the audience's attention but also demonstrates the change in society and highlights the fact it will also affect the hierarchy of positions in institutions such as the church. You could argue that this is an example of cultural conviviality or just an accurate representation of the 21st century, especially 2024 when this movie was released. 

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